THCa vs. Delta 8: What's the Difference?
Exploring Two Popular (and Potent) Cannabinoids
Are you curious about the fascinating world of cannabinoids and the various forms they come in? In this blog, we're going to delve into a comparison of two popular cannabis products: Delta 8-THC flower and THCa flower. While they might sound similar, they have their own unique characteristics that set them apart. So, let's spark up this conversation and explore the differences between Delta 8 and THCa!
What’s in a Name?
Let's start with the basics. Delta 8 flower is named after delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. On the other hand, THCa flower gets its name from tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, the acidic form of THC. While they both have "THC" in their names, the crucial difference lies in their chemical compositions.
The High Factor
When it comes to the "high" or intoxicating effects, these cannabinoids take different paths. THCa flower, in its raw form, is technically non-psychoactive; however, it quickly converts into well-known delta 9-THC when heated. When smoked or vaporized, THCa is comparable to the traditional THC-induced euphoria.
Delta 8 flower, on the other hand, is inherently psychoactive. It is generally considered to be less potent than THCa or traditional delta 9-THC, but it can still induce a mild high. Users often describe feeling relaxed with a sense of clarity and focus. So, if you're seeking a milder experience, Delta 8 might be your go-to choice.
Most users agree that the effects of THCa are about 2x stronger than Delta 8.
Therapeutic Potential
Both Delta 8 flower and THCa flower possess unique therapeutic qualities that can be harnessed by consumers around the country. Although research is still emerging, anecdotal evidence suggests that these alternative cannabinoids may offer benefits similar to traditional cannabis.
Delta 8 flower has shown potential in relieving anxiety, promoting relaxation, and alleviating mild pain and inflammation. It may also stimulate appetite and combat nausea, making it a promising option for individuals dealing with appetite suppression or undergoing treatments that cause nausea.
THCa flower, even without undergoing decarboxylation, has been associated with potential anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anticancer properties. After converting to Delta 9-THC, it may also assist in managing pain and providing relief from muscle spasms.
Overcoming Legal Barriers
In jurisdictions where medical or recreational marijuana remains inaccessible, Delta 8 flower and THCa flower offer a legal workaround. As long as these alternative cannabis products comply with local regulations, individuals can access them without running afoul of the law. This opens doors for those seeking therapeutic relief or a recreational experience within the boundaries of their jurisdiction.
Availability and Consumption
Delta 8 flower and THCa flower are gaining popularity and becoming increasingly accessible everywhere. All around the United States, consumers can explore online stores, specialty shops, and dispensaries that offer these alternative cannabinoids. Not only does this availability helps bridge the gap, enabling access to cannabis experiences that were previously out of reach, but many users are discovering that they prefer the effects of Delta 8 or THCa to traditional cannabis!
When it comes to consumption, both Delta 8 flower and THCa flower can be enjoyed in various forms. Smoking or vaporizing these flowers provides a quick onset of effects, while oils, tinctures, and edibles offer convenient and discreet options. Users can tailor their consumption methods to suit their preferences and desired experiences.
Natural vs. Infused - What’s the Difference?
This is the most important distinction between THCa flower and Delta 8 flower. Real THCa flower is unadulterated while Delta 8 flower is usually CBD or CBG flower that’s been infused with Delta 8 distillate.
THCa is the All-Natural Choice
Real THCa flower is naturally rich in the THCa cannabinoid; this means that you’re buying raw, unadulterated flower. Recently, hemp breeders have figured out how to cultivate flower that produces its own rich THCa content—sometimes as much as 25% THCa! The plants themselves create this amazing cannabinoid in abundance.
*It’s important to note that some THCa flower on the market is not ‘real THCa flower.’ THCa can also come in a distillate form, like Delta 8, and be sprayed onto CBD or CBG flower. Whether you prefer the natural or the infused is a personal preference, but the natural THCa flower is usually considered a more premium product.
Delta 8 Flower is Infused
As of now, there is no hemp flower that naturally contains high amounts of Delta 8-THC. Delta 8 exists in very small concentrations in raw flower, so it must be extracted in a laboratory using heat and chemical catalysts. This process involves converting CBD into Delta 8-THC to get a thick, syrupy liquid called a distillate and then spraying this liquid onto CBG or CBD flower. The results vary tremendously from store to store. The process isn’t easy to master, so if you’re buying Delta 8 flower make sure the vendor is reliable and experienced. Inferior Delta 8 flower can be exceedingly sticky, goopy, and unevenly coated.
Another concern about Delta 8 flower is that it may contain residual solvents from the extraction process. This is why it’s especially important to buy from a trusted source. You can read more in our previous blog, Is Delta 8 Safe?
Learn more by clicking on the links below, and read the in-depth blogs about each of these exciting cannabinoids.
Let’s Sum it Up
In conclusion, both THCa and Delta 8 flower offer a legal entry point into the psychoactive cannabis market. Whether you choose one over the other depends on personal preference. Let’s sum it all up:
Both products can be safe and effective and deliver effects similar to traditional cannabis.
Most users agree that THCa flower tends to be more potent than Delta 8 flower, perhaps about twice as strong.
THCa flower can be an entirely natural product, although it is sometimes sold as CBD/CBG flower infused with distillate.
Delta 8 flower is always infused. This isn’t necessarily bad, but you should be discerning when shopping for Delta 8 online.
We hope this blog helps you make informed choices when it comes to purchasing THCa and Delta 8 flower online. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. At Lucky Elk, we love connecting with our customers!